Theft-deterring device for skis and poles and method of using same

ABSTRACT

The device enables the owner of a pair of skis to lock them in any of several unusual or absurb configurations so that their unauthorized removal from a ski area will be discouraged. The device comprises a rectangular frame of stainless steel strip material, having a threaded hole in one portion thereof which receives a threaded bolt having a handle extending perpendicularly from one end thereof. Overlapped sections of the pair of skis to be protected are first placed within the opening formed by the frame and the bolt tightened against a pressure pad or plate which presses against one of the skis, this causing the other ski to be forced tightly against a portion of the frame opposite the portion containing the threaded hole. A layer of resilient material, such as gum rubber, is employed on one side of the pressure plate and also on the opposite frame portion against which the other ski is pressed in order to facilitate tightening, resist slippage and prevent marring of the skis. The handle has a hole near its free end so that the U-shaped shackle of a conventional padlock can be inserted therethrough and also through the frame opening to prevent reverse rotation of the handle and hence unauthorized release of the tightly clamped skis. The pole straps can be looped over the handle before locking the handle in order to safeguard the ski poles along with the skis.

United States Patent [:91

Peterson 1 1 THEFT-DETERRING DEVICE FOR SKIS AND POLES AND METHOD OF USING SAME [76] Inventor: Stuart R. Peterson, 790 Southgate Office Plaza, 5001 W. 78th St. Minneapolis, Minn. 55437 122] Filed: Dec. 17, 1973 [21] Appl. No.: 425,498

[52] U.S. Cl 70/19; 70/58 [51] Int. Cl. E053 73/00 [58] Field of Search 70/18, 19,57, 58, 203,

70/212, 229, 230; 280/1137 E, 11.37 A. 11.37 C, 11.37 K; 211/60 SK; 24/81 SK; 292/251, 256.67

Primary ExuminerRobert L. Wolfe Attorney. Agent, or Firm-Stuart R. Peterson 1 July 15, 1975 [5 71 ABSTRACT The device enables the owner of a pair of skis to lock them in any of several unusual or absurb configurations so that their unauthorized removal from a ski area will be discouraged. The device comprises a rectangular frame of stainless steel strip material, having a threaded hole in one portion thereof which receives a threaded bolt having a handle extending perpendicularly from one end thereof. Overlapped sections of the pair of skis to be protected are first placed within the opening formed by the frame and the bolt tightened against a pressure pad or plate which presses against one of the skis, this causing the other ski to be forced tightly against a portion of the frame opposite the portion containing the threaded hole. A layer of resilient material, such as gum rubber, is employed on one side of the pressure plate and also on the opposite frame portion against which the other ski is pressed in order to facilitate tightening, resist slippage and prevent marring of the skis. The handle has a hole near its free end so that the U-shaped shackle of a conventional padlock can be inserted therethrough and also through the frame opening to prevent reverse rotation of the handle and hence unauthorized release of the tightly clamped skis. The pole straps can be looped over the handle before locking the handle in order to safeguard the ski poles along with the skis.

29 Claims, 12 Drawing Figures THEFT-DETERRING DEVICE FOR SKIS AND POLES AND METHOD OF USING SAME BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to a device and method for discouraging the unauthorized taking of skis and poles from a ski area, and pertains more particularly to a device and method that will maintain the skis in a highly unusual or conspicuous relationship with each other so that any thief will be branded as such if he should attempt to carry the skis when so oriented.

2. Description of the Prior Art Virtually every skier recognizes that he runs the risk of having his skis and/or poles stolen, particularly when he leaves them unattended at a ski resort, such as outside the chalet. Although not sanctioned, skiers frequently carry their poles with them when they go into the chalet in order to protect them, and some will endeavor to seat themselves when possible at a window in order to keep their skis within view. The more crowded a ski area is, the more difficult it is to maintain the proper degree of vigilance.

Whether a skier takes any precautions or not, he still worries about his equipment when left unattended because a thief, particularly one who has been watching the skiers movements, knows that he is not apt to be apprehended. Consequently, the economic loss attributable to the stealing of ski equipment has reached such proportions that considerable effort has been made to protect the skiers equipment and also to lessen his anxiety.

The most notable and prevalent apparatus has been the stationary ski rack where the skier deposits a coin and obtains a key in order to lock his skis to the rack. Over even a short period of time, this can be relatively costly for the skier. Furthermore, a professional thief can easily deposit a coin, obtain a given key and then have a duplicate made that will enable him to unlock someones skis subsequently placed in the rack. Because of the financial investment and the responsibility of maintaining the racks, ski resorts have been somewhat reluctant to install enough ski racks to accommodate all of the skis that might be placed therein at a given time. In any event, the rack system falls far short of being adequate.

Owing to the shortcomings of the ski rack system, efforts have been made to provide other locking arrangements. Cables and chains, to be effective, must encircle some fixed object, which is not always readily available. Other attempts with which I am familiar have required that the skis themselves be modified, usually along with the addition of special hardware, this sometimes being done at the factory or left to the user. Some of these contrivances are vulnerable to clogging from ice and snow and have proved to be ineffectual for this reason. Furthermore, some of the prior art devices have been quite cumbersome, bulky and heavy so that they cannot be readily carried by the skier. As with the abovementioned cables and chains, still others require attachment to some permanent or semi-permanent structure, such as a tree, post or part of a building.

Consequently, while there are advantages to a number of the schemes that have been devised in the past, there are also decided disadvantages that have militated against the general adoption of such protective apparatus. Hence, a need still exists for an effective device that will deter the unauthorized removal of skis and poles from a ski area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, a general object of the present invention is to provide a device and method that will effectively discourage the stealing of skis and also ski poles. More specifically, it is planned that the skis be clamped together in a highly unusual or absurd relationship such that the carrying thereof when in such a relationship will be so conspicuous as to immediately call attention to the thief, literally branding him as such. Recognizing that he would be calling public attention to his illegal act, if he attempted it, he is deterred at the outset from taking skis held together in accordance with the teachings of this invention.

Another object of the invention is to provide a theftdeterring device for protecting skis that is sufficiently compact and lightweight that it can be carried in a skiers pocket. In this regard, an aim of the invention is to provide a device that will easily fit in the pocket of a ski jacket or ski pants and which weighs but a few ounces.

A further object of the invention is to provide a device that requires no restructuring or altering of the skis themselves. Stated somewhat differently, the skis do not have to be modified in any way, such as by drilling holes or adding hardware, in order to make use of my device. Additionally, the device will accommodate any conventional pair of skis without difficulty.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a device of the foregoing character that does not require a built-in or integral lock, or any special lock, for that matter. A conventional padlock of proper size is all that is needed; the skier may use a padlock he already owns or may purchase one that can be used for other purposes as well. ln this regard, the padlock can be either of the key or combination variety.

Still another object is to provide a device the utility of which will not be hampered by the accumulation of snow or ice either on the skis or on the device itself. Even after prolonged outdoor exposure, the device can be easily operated to either lock or release the skis. It is also within the purview of the invention to provide a device that can be manipulated without the skier having to remove his mittens or gloves. Furthermore, no tools or implements are required in either locking or unlocking the skis.

Still another object is to provide a clamping device that can be used when the skier wishes to carry his skis in a conventional fashion, this being with the running surfaces confronting each other. In other words, the skier can clamp the skis in the usual back-to-back manner that is now done with rubber straps, yet be able to clamp the skis rather grotesquely in order to discourage the taking of them. Hence, my invention possesses a considerable amount of versatility with respect to the way in which the skis can be held.

A still further object of the invention is to provide a ski locking device that can be manufactured inexpensively, the low price at which the device can be sold encouraging its use.

Still another object is to provide a simple device that will adequately protect the skiers poles as well as his skis.

Briefly, my invention comprises a rectangular frame of strip metal having a tapped or threaded hole which accommodates or receives therein a threaded stud or bolt. A perpendicularly extending handle on the bolt permits the bolt to be rotated and advanced in the di rection of a pair of skis when overlapped portions have been placed within the opening of the rectangular frame. The bolt, when tightened, bears against a small pressure plate or pad that adequately distributes the load over a larger area than would be realized by only using the bolt. The foregoing parts are preferably of stainless steel.

The pressure plate or pad that distributes the load has a layer of resilient material that is adhered to the side that confronts one of the skis. Similarly, the portion of the frame against which the other ski is forced is provided with a layer of resilient material. In this way, the two layers of resilient material, preferably soft gum rubber, adequately protect the usually glossy plastic surface of the skis and also effectively resist slippage Consequently, when the handle is utilized to tighten the stud sufficiently, the two skis are firmly clamped or pressed together and cannot be manually pulled apart.

The handle has a hole extending through a portion thereof remote from the stud or bolt for the accommodation of one leg of the U-shaped shackle of a conventional padlock. The shackle is inserted through the frame opening and then through the handle hole so that when the shackle is locked in place the handle cannot be reversely rotated in a direction to effect the release of the clamped skis.

In one embodiment the tapped or threaded hole is located nearer one side of the frame than the other, this enabling the handle to be somewhat longer and thus readily accommodate two pole straps. Also, the disposition of the tapped hole nearer one side than the other minimizes the bending of the strip portion of the frame containing the tapped or threaded hole therein. However, a second embodiment is contemplated in which the hole is centrally located. In this instance, to minimize the likelihood of bending, and at the same time permit the strip stock to be relatively thin and lightweight, it is intended that the hole-containing strip be reinforced. More specifically, it is planned that there be an overlapping to provide two strip thicknesses that are spot welded together to provide the reinforcing for the portion of the frame that is most vulnerable to flexing when subjected to relatively high bending forces.

In the first embodiment, the user has a choice as to how he safeguards his ski poles. The handle of the device is sufficiently long so that both pole straps can be placed thereover before locking the handle, the threaded bolt and shackle then preventing removal of the straps. On the other hand, he can place the straps over the skis and then press the skis against the straps. In the second embodiment, he can place at least one pole strap over the somewhat shorter handle, first threading it through the other strap in so doing; hereagain, the skier can sandwich the pole straps between the skis as with the first embodiment, if he prefers this mode of pole retention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing one of the unusual ski configurations that can be selected when using my device;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the FIG. 1 configuration;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view illustrating another distinctive way in which a pair of skis can be locked together when using my device, the skis in this instance having one side edge thereof resting on the snow and being held with their heels or tails overlapped to provide an end-to-end configuration;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view corresponding to FIG. 3, the ski extending to the left in FIG. 3 appearing only fragmentarily in this view;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of two fragmentarily depicted skis held in the same overlapped fashion as in FIGS. 3 and 4 but with the skis being supported in a generally horizontal plane parallel to the snow or ground rather than the vertical one of FIGS. 3 and 4;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view taken in the direction of line 6-6 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view taken in the direction of line 77 of FIG. 5, the scale corresponding to that of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an exploded or separated perspective view of the embodiment appearing in FIGS. 1-7;

FIG. 9 is a view taken in the direction of line 9-9 of FIG. 10, the view being somewhat like FIG. 5 but with the pole straps, only fragmentarily depicted, held differently and with the handle being in a different solid line position from that appearing in FIG. 5, and there being another locking position superimposed thereon in phantom outline;

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken in the direction of line l010 of FIG. Q in order to show to better advantage the sandwich-like manner in which the ski pole straps of FIG. 9 are held;

FIG. 11 is a view corresponding to FIG. 6 but illustrating a slightly different embodiment of my invention. and

FIG. 12 is a plan view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11 for the purpose of showing one of several positions that the handle may assume in the locking thereof, the view being in the direction of line I212 of FIG. 11.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2, the snow or ground has been given the reference numeral 10 and the unusual configuration there depicted has been given the reference numeral 12. More specifically, a pair of skis l4 and 16 are held in a teepee-like arrangement with a pair of ski poles 18 and 20, the pole 18 having a strap labeled 22 and the pole 20 having a strap labeled 24. My device for maintaining the arrangement 10 has been generally denoted by the reference numeral 26; however, the small scale does not permit any detailed description of the parts at this time.

As will become manifest hereinafter, the unusual configuration 12 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 represents only one of several that can be employed in order to deter the unauthorized removal of the skis I4, 16 and poles 18, 20 from a ski area. The configuration 12 has the advantage that the skis 14, I6 and poles 18, 20 occupy less lateral space than when utilizing some of the other absurd and distinctive arrangements within the contemplation of my invention certain of which arrangements will hereinafter be referred to. In a sense, perhaps the depicted relationship in FIG. I is not as distinctive as the one now to be described.

Turning to FIGS. 3 and 4, the distinctive relationship there illustrated for the skis l4, 16 has been assigned the reference numeral 28. Whereas the arrangement 12 of FIG. 1 and 2 makes use of the curved tips or shovel portions 140, l6a of the skis 14, 16 for holding the skis in a clamped relation, it is obvious from these views, particularly FIG. 3, that the heels or tails 14b, l6b of the skis l4, 16 are used in the configuration labeled 28. More specifically, the arrangement 28, by reason of its end-to-end or spread eagle-like effect, would call immediate attention to any thief who might attempt to take the skis when held in such an absurd fashion, for the length between the tips 14a and 16a would be on the order of twelve feet or so.

Whereas the configuration 28 has been referred to, more specifically an arrangement where the edges 14c, 16c of the skis 14, 16 rest on the snow or ground this orientation is not as conducive to a facile understanding of my device 26 as where the skis are turned through 90 degrees about their longitudinal axes. This rotated relation, while not really a different configuration, has been distinguished by the subscript a". Thus, the rotated configuration has been given the reference character 28a in FIGS. 5-7.

Describing now in detail the construction of the device 26, it will be observed that it includes a generally rectangular frame 30 composed of a bottom strip 32, side strips 34 and 36 integrally connected to the opposite ends of the bottom strip 32 and projecting perpendicularly upwardly therefrom. The upper ends of the side strips 34 and 36 are integrally connected by a top or bridging strip 38. As can be discerned from FIGS. 6 and 7, the bottom strip 32 is composed of the end portions of a rather long strip having a sufficient original length so as to permit the forming of the frame 30, the strip ends being butt welded at 40. It is preferable that the weld 40 be made in the bottom strip 32 rather than the top strip 38 or one of the side strips 34, 36 because the bottom strip 32 does not have as much force applied thereto as the strips 34, 36 and 38, especially strip 38, which will become more evident as the description progresses. Also, it will be recognized that the use of the terms top and bottom" is only one of reference, the relation depending upon the orientation of the skis when held by my device 26. For instance, the ski configuration 12 appearing in FIGS. 1 and 2 results in the strips 32 and 38 becoming side strips, being at the same elevation. Hence, the terms bottom, sides and top indeed are only relative, but serve as a ready means of reference during the description thereof.

It will be apparent at this stage of the description that the rectangular frame 30 provides an opening 42 therein. Use is made of this opening 42 for the accommodation of overlapped longitudinal portions of the skis l4 and 16, in this instance their heels or tails 14b and 16b, respectively. From FIGS. 6 and 7, it will be seen that the running surfaces 14:! and 16d of the skis 14, 16 confront each other, but this is not imperative inasmuch as the skis could be arranged with both of the tips 14a, 16a pointing upwardly, this causing the runnin g surface of one ski to confront the upper surface of the other ski.

It will be perceived that the bottom strip 32 has a length somewhat greater than the width of the ski 16 that it underlies. The side strips 34, 36 have a length (or height as viewed in FIGS. 6 and 7) so as to extend somewhat above the upper surface of the upper ski 14. Inasmuch as the strip 38 as integrally connected to the upper ends of the side strips 34 and 36, this leaves a gap or spacing between the upper surface of the upper ski l4 and the underside of the top strip 38. More will be said later on concerning the dimensions of my device 26 and the relation thereof with respect to skis generally.

At this time, attention is directed to a tapped or threaded hole 44 in the top strip 38. As can best be discerned from FIGS. S7, particularly FIG. 7, the threaded hole 44 is located nearer the side strip 36 than the side strip 34. By offsetting the hole 44 with respect to the transverse center of the top strip 38, less bending or flexing will be experienced for a given gauge or thickness of the strip stock constituting the frame 30, which, of course, is the sum of the individual lengths constituting the bottom 32, sides 34, 36 and top 38.

Engaged in the tapped or threaded hole 44 is a threaded stud or bolt 46 having a bottom end 48. The upper end of the bolt 46 has in the depicted instance a flat circular or disc-like head 50 which is spot welded to one end of an elongated strip constituting a handle 52. In the embodiment 26 now being referred to, the handle 52 has a length, as measured from the bolt 46 to the right end thereof (FIG. 7), corresponding generally to the distance between the tapped or threaded hole 44 and the side strip 34. Near the free end, this being the end nearer the side strip 34, is formed a hole 56 for a purpose soon to be made manifest.

Also included in the device 26 is pressure pad or plate 58 having a flat-bottom recess 60 that can be partially punched therein, the end 48 of the stud 46 bearing in this recess 60. Thus, when the handle 52 is rotated so as to advance the stud 46 downwardly, the pressure plate 58 is pressed downwardly in the direction of the upper ski 14 to force the upper ski downwardly against the lower ski l6 and the lower ski 16 in turn downwardly in the direction of the bottom strip 32.

A layer 62 of resilient material, such as soft gum rubber, is adhesively secured to the underside of the pressure plate 58. Similarly, a layer 64 of resilient material, also preferably of soft gum rubber, is adhered to the upper side of the bottom strip 32. Thus, when the handle 52 is tightened to cause the pressure plate or pad 58 to press downwardly, the resilient layer 62 is somewhat compressed and so is the underlying resilient layer 64. The purpose of the layers 62, 64 is threefold: (l) the finished surfaces of the skis 14 and 16 will be protected against marring, (2) the resilient layers 62, 64 provide slip-resistant surfaces that prevent the upper ski 14 from moving relative to the pressure plate 62 and the lower ski 16 from moving relative to the bottom strip 32 with the consequence that the skis l4, 16 cannot be pulled longitudinally relative to each other, and (3) the resilient material 62, 64 enables the user to rotate the handle 52 sufficiently to obtain the optimum degree of clamping of the skis 14, 16 within the frame 30 and at the same time angularly disalign the handle to bring the hole 56 into a slightly offset relationship with the end of the top strip 38 that connects with the side strip 34.

A conventional padlock 66 is employed, the padlock as illustrated having a barrel 68 and a key hole 70 (FIG. 8) in the bottom thereof, although a combination-type lock can just as readily be utilized. As is typical with padlocks, they are equipped with a U-shaped shackle 72. The hole 56 has a diameter sufficient to accept that of the shackle 72. The easiest way of locking the handle 52 is to insert the free end 74 of the shackle 72 beneath the upper or top strip 38 and then pass the free end 74 through the handle hole 56. Then the barrel 68 of the lock 66 is rotated so as to align the opening in the barrel 68 which receives the free end 74 of the shackle 72, a slight downward movement of the barrel 68 causing the free end 74 to enter the barrel to complete the locking action as is conventional with padlocks.

It is expected that the average skier will also wish to protect his ski poles. The ski poles l8 and 20 have already been mentioned. Whereas the straps 22 and 24 are held in the configuration l2 appearing in FlGS. l and 2, the small scale of these figures make it such that it is not readily understandable just how the device 26 retains the straps 22, 24. This will now be explained and is better understood when considering FIGS. 4-7. Assuming that the handle 52 has been fully tightened so as to derive the requisite clamping action of the bolt 46 against the pressure plate 58, this resulting in the skis l4 and 16 being pressed against each other and the lower ski 16 against the bottom strip 32, more precisely, against the resilient layer 64. Before using the lock 66, all that the skier need do is to place the straps 22, 24 over the handle 52, the loop configuration of the straps 22, 24 readily permitting this to be done as can be easily seen in FIGS. 5-7. After he has done this, assuming that the handle 52 is in the angular position illustrated in FIG. 5, then the shackle 72 can be manipulated or maneuvered so as to pass through the upper right hand corner of the rectangular opening 42, as viewed in FIGS. 6 and 7, which is beneath the top strip 38 and also through the handle hole 56. It is believed obvious, especially from FIG. 7, that the bolt or stud 46 prevents the removal of the straps 22, 24 at the left, whereas the shackle 72 prevents any removal from the right.

The invention lends itself readily to securing the straps 22, 24 in another manner. This second choice made available is depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10 where the strap 22 is looped over the ski l4 and the strap 24 over the ski 16 before the bolt 46 is tightened. As easily understood from F l6. 10, the lower stretch of the loop or strap 22 is held between the skis l4, 16, this being just to the right of the device 26, and the upper stretch of the other strap 24 is similarly held between the skis to the left of the device 26. It will be recognized that with the straps 14, 16 so held, the handle 52 may angle as shown in FIG. 5.

As already pointed out, several distinctive clamping arrangements can be selected. The configurations 12, 28 and 280 have been specifically mentioned. The configuration 12 has the advantage of requiring less space, at least in one direction, yet being quite noticeable if carried in such a teepee-like manner. The configurations 28, 28a (actually the same but resting differently on the snow l0) if not leaning against a supporting structure, take more space in one direction. for when laid end-to-end on the snow or ground 10 a length of roughly twelve feet is needed, although only a few inches in width is required; the arrangement 28 or 280 creates an outstanding attention-getting effect if carried this way. An additional configuration (not illustrated) that is also readily available to the skier would comprise having the tip of one ski, say the tip 14a of the ski l4, clamped to the heel 16b of the other ski 16. Another relation not pictured could be with the tip 14a confronting the running surface 16d somewhere between the tip 160 and the middle of the ski 16 (near the bindings). Still other unusual configurations are possible and can be selected to some degree in accordance with the space available at that moment.

It should be explained at this stage that the skier can use my device 26 for facilitating the carrying of his skis l4, l6 conventionally, this being with the full length of the running surfaces 14d, 16d confronting each other. All that the skier need do is to slip the frame 30 of my device 26 over the heels, 14b, 16b, slide the frame 30 toward the bindings. and then tighten the handle 52 to effect the clamping. Normally, the lock 66 would not be used under these circumstances, although it could be, especially if the skis are to be first carried and then shipped say, to the skier's destination.

At this time attention is directed to a second hole labeled 76 formed in the handle 52. This hole 76 is relatively close to the stud or bolt 46 and permits the handle 52 to be locked in the solid line position illustrated in FIG. 9, or in the phantom position there shown. Two other locking positions can be used, including the one on the right in FIG. 5 or a similar one to the left (not shown). The positions of the handle 52 pictured in FIG. 9 does not contemplate having the straps 22, 24 looped thereover, but does enable the straps to encircle the skis l4, 16 so as to be clamped therebetween as already explained and which arrangement is depicted in this figure and also in FIG. 10.

Several attributes are highly desirable. One is that the device 26 be compact. Another is that it be lightweight. The device 26 functions admirably in fulfilling both of these requirements. Also, by offsetting the tapped or threaded hole 44, the amount of deflection of the upper strip 38 is reduced. Additionally, the length of the handle 52 is sufficient to accommodate the pole straps 22, 24 thereover, an important attribute.

To enable the tapped hole 44 to be centrally located intermediate the ends of the upper strip 38, a modified device 126 has been illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. The frame 130 is fabricated somewhat differently in this instance from the frame 30. Here, there is a bottom strip 132, the side strips 134, 136 plus the top strip 138. However, in fabricating the frame 130, the original length of the strip stock is increased so as to provide an extension labeled 138a which underlies the top strip 138 and is spot welded thereto at various locations labeled 140. Hence, two thicknesses of the metal strip stock exist above the skis l4, 16 as far as the embodiment 126 is concerned. This allows somewhat thinner stock to be employed and permits the tapped or threaded hole 144 to be centrally located between the ends of the composite top strip 138, 1380 permitting a shorter handle 152 to be utilized. However, this modification requires that the welding be reliable.

As can be understood from FIG. 12, even though only one is shown, the handle 152 can be moved into any one of four different locking positions with respect to the upper strip 138, 1380. As can be discerned from F 1G. 11 one pole strap 22 can be easily accommodated when the shorter length handle 152 is utilized. [t is possible to thread the strap 24 through the hand opening for the strip 22 in order to safeguard both poles 18, 20. Of course, straps 22, 24 can be sandwiched between the skis l4, 16 as explained in conjunction with P165. 9 and 10 With respect to the device 126, the locking thereof is the same as followed with the device 26. ln both cases, the shackle 72 straddles the frame 30 or 130 with one leg portion of the shackle residing in either the hole 56 or 156, as the case may be.

Several facets of my invention may not be completely obvious. Therefore, it will be of some help, it is believed, to provide a few preferred details. First, the frame 30 can be made from 12 gauge stainless steel having a width of one-half inch which will readily fit within the shackle of a lock where the spacing between the shackle legs is approximately three-fourths inch. In order to accommodate the usual skis now being marketed, the frame opening 34 would preferably have a width of 3% inches (measured between the strips 34 and 36) and a height of l% inches (measured between the strips 32 and 38). In this regard, the width of the tips 140, l6a is on the order of 3 1/2 inches, whereas the width of the heels 14b, l6b would be on the order of three inches; thus the width of the frame opening 34 should be adequate to receive the widest portion of the skis 14, 16. The thickness of the skis 14, 16, at least where they are to be clamped, will range from onefourth to three-eighths inch. With a thickness of oneeighth inch for the stainless steel pressure plate 58 and a thickness of 3/32 for each rubber layer 62 and 64, it follows that the 1% inch height is adequate, additionally providing sufficient space between the strip 38 and the ski 14 for the passage of a shackle 72 having a onefourth inch diameter. The tapped or threaded hole 44 should be approximately three-fourths inch from the strip 36, which distance minimizes bending of the strip 38 when fabricated from No. 12 gauge stainless steel stock. The handle 52 would then have a length of approximately 4 inches measured from the centerline of the bolt 46 to the remote or right end (FIGS. 6, 7) thereof. The handle 52 is preferably of No. 14 gauge stainless steel.

It is important that the device 26 be lightweight. The total weight of the frame 30, stud 46, handle 52, pressure plate 58, and the rubber layers 62, 64 totals only four ounces. The device 126 will also weigh approximately the same. In this regard, the thickness of the stainless steel stock for the frame 130 can be reduced but the overlapping at the sections 138, 138a offsets to some degree the weight savings that would otherwise be experienced. Because of the spot welds 140, the fabrication costs of the device 126 are increased slightly over the device 26. The centering of the bolt 146 and the shorter length of the handle 152, in the modification 126, while having some advantages, does not readily accommodate both pole straps 22, 24 thereover, as does the handle 52 of the device 26.

I claim:

1. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a frame for completely encircling overlapped portions of a pair of skis, said frame having a threaded hole, a threaded member engageable in said hole, a handle for rotating said threaded member in one direction to press one ski against the other ski and in turn press said other ski against a portion of said frame residing generally on the opposite side of said frame from said hole, and means for precluding movement of said handle with respect to said frame to prevent sufficient reverse rotation of said threaded member which would release said skis.

2. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 1 including means for distributing the force applied to said one ski by said threaded member over an area of said one ski greater than the cross section of said threaded member.

3. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 2 in which said force distributing means includes a plate element between the end of said threaded member and said one ski.

4. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 3 in which said plate element has a recess therein in which the end of said threaded member engages.

5. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 1 including a pressure plate acted on by said threaded member to distribute the applied load over a larger area of said one ski than would be realized with only said threaded member.

6. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including a resilient material on said plate.

7. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including a resilient material on said portion of said frame.

8. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including resilient material on said plate and resilient material on said portion of said frame for resisting slippage of said skis relative to said plate and relative to said frame.

9. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a generally rectangular unit including a bottom portion having a length sufficient to span the width of one ski, side portions extending perpendicularly from the ends of said bottom portion having a length greater than the thickness of said one ski and that of a second ski and a top portion extending between said side portions so as to span the width of said second ski in a slightly spaced relation therewith, said top portion having a threaded hole therein, a threaded member received in said threaded hole, a handle attached to said threaded member so as to rotate said member in a direction to press said second ski toward said one ski and also to press said one ski toward said bottom portion and means for effecting a locking of said handle relative to said top portion in order to prevent unauthorized reverse rotation of said threaded member.

10. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 9 in which said bottom, top and side portions comprise strip elements, said handle also constituting a strip element having a hole therein spaced from said threaded member so that the shackle of a padlock may be inserted under said top strip and through said handle hole to prevent said unauthorized reverse rotation of threaded member.

1 l. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 10 in which said threaded hole is disposed nearer one of said side strip elements than the other and said handle element has a length such that it extends from said threaded member a distance corresponding to the distance said threaded hole is from the other of said side strip elements, said handle hole being adjacent the free end of said handle element.

12. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 10 in which said threaded hole is located centrally in said top strip element and said handle element has a length approximately half the length of said top strip element, said handle hole being disposed adjacent the free end of said handle element.

13. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a generally rectangular unit including a first pair of parallel elements of a length greater than the width of a pair of skis and a second pair of parallel elements of a length greater than the thickness of said pair of skis, the ends of said second elements connecting with the ends of said first elements to maintain a fixed spacing between said first elements sufficient to permit the insertion of overlapped portions of a pair of skis into the opening formed by said first and second elements, one of said first elements having a threaded hole therein, a threaded stud or bolt engageable in said threaded hole, an elongated handle attached to one end of said threaded stud or bolt and a pressure plate engageable by the other end of said stud or bolt so that it can be forced against one of said skis, said handle having a hole therein spaced from said stud or bolt, whereby when said handle is rotated in one direction said stud or bolt is advanced toward said one ski to force said pressure plate against said one ski and said one ski against the other of said pair of skis to force said other ski against a surface portion of the other of said first elements and whereby the shackle of a padlock can be inserted through said opening formed by said first and second pairs of elements and through said handle hole so that said shackle straddles said one first element to prevent sufficient movement of said handle relative to said unit which would release said skis.

14. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 including a layer of resilient slip-resistant material on at least one of said surface portions.

15. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 including a layer of resilient slip-resistant material on each of said surface potions.

16. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 in which said threaded hole is located nearer one of said second elements than the other and said handle has a length at least equal to the distance from said threaded hole to the other of said second elements and said handle hole is located in said handle at a distance from said stud or bolt equal to approximately the distance between said threaded hole and said other second element.

17. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 in which said threaded hole is located substantially midway between the ends of said first element and said handle having a length at least equal to half of the length of said first element and said handle hole is located in said handle at a distance from said stud or bolt equal to approximately the distance between said threaded hole in either of said second elements.

18. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a rectangular metal frame including a first strip having a given length, second and third strips attached to the ends of said first strip having a length less than that of said first strip, a fourth strip having a length corresponding to that of the first strip. said fourth strip having its ends attached to the other ends of said second and third strips and having a threaded hole therein, the device further comprising a threaded stud or bolt engageable in said threaded hole, a fifth strip extending perpendicularly from one end of said stud or bolt for advancing the other end of said stud or bolt in the direction of said first strip to clamp said skis between said stud or bolt and first strip, and means enabling said fifth strip to be held relative said fourth strip.

19. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 18 in which said means includes a U-shaped shackle of a padlock, said fifth strip having a hole therein so that said shackle can be inserted through the hole of said fifth strip in a straddling relation with said fourth strip to prevent reverse rotation of said stud or bolt and unauthorized release of said skis.

20. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 19 in which said threaded hole is located nearer said second strip.

21. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 19 in which said hole is located substantially midway between said second and third strips, said frame including a sixth strip secured to said fourth strip for reinforcing said fourth strip, said threaded hole extending through said fourth and sixth strips.

22. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim [9 including a pressure plate having a recess in one side thereof for accommodating said other end of the stud or bolt.

23. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 22 including a layer of resilient material adhered to said first strip and a layer of resilient material adhered to said pressure plate.

24. A method of deterring the unauthorized taking of skis comprising the steps of overlapping portions of a pair of skis within a frame having a threaded hole and a threaded member received therein, said member having a handle formed with a hole therein, tightening said member sufficiently to clamp said ski portions within said frame and to orient said handle hole in a slightly offset relation with said frame, and inserting the shackle of a padlock through said frame and handle hole to prevent loosening of said bolt and release of said clamped skis.

25. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of lacing the strap of at least one ski pole over said handle before inserting said shackle through said frame and handle hole to additionally deter the unauthorized taking of said ski pole.

26. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of placing a section of the strap of at least one pole between said ski portions before tightening said bolt.

27. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of placing a pressure pad between said threaded member and one of said skis before tightening said member.

28. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 in which said overlapping step includes the placing of the ski heels together to retain said skis in an end-to-end relation.

29. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 in which said overlapping step includes the placing of the ski tips together to retain said skis in a teepee-like relation. 

1. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a frame for completely encircling overlapped portions of a pair of skis, said frame having a threaded hole, a threaded member engageable in said hole, a handle for rotating said threaded member in one direction to press one ski against the other ski and in turn press said other ski against a portion of said frame residing generally on the opposite side of said frame from said hole, and means for precluding movement of said handle with respect to said frame to prevent sufficient reverse rotation of said threaded member which would release said skis.
 2. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 1 including means for distributing the force applied to said one ski by said threaded member over an area of said one ski greater than the cross section of said threaded member.
 3. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 2 in which said force distributing means includes a plate element between the end of said threaded member and said one ski.
 4. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 3 in which said plate element has a recess therein in which the end of said threaded member engages.
 5. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 1 including a pressure plate acted on by said threaded member to distribute the applied load over a larger area of said one ski than would be realized with only said threaded member.
 6. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including a resilient material on said plate.
 7. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including a resilient material on said portion of said frame.
 8. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 5 including resilient material on said plate and resilient material on said portion of said frame for resisting slippage of said skis relative to said plate and relative to said frame.
 9. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a generally rectangular unit including a bottom portion having a length sufficient to span the width of one ski, side portions extending perpendicularly from the ends of said bottom portion having a length greater than the thickness of said one ski and that of a second ski and a top portion extending between said side portions so as to span the width of said second ski in a slightly spaced relation therewith, said top portion having a threaded hole therein, a threaded member received in said threaded hole, a handle attached to said threaded member so as to rotate said member in a direction to press said second ski toward said one ski and also to press said one ski toward said bottom portion and means for effecting a locking of said handle relative to said top portion in order to prevent unauthorized reverse rotation of said threaded member.
 10. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 9 in which said bottom, top and side portions comprise strip elements, said handle also constituting a strip element having a hole therein spaced from said threaded member so that the shackle of a padlock may be inserted under said top strip and through said handle hole to prevent said unauthorized reverse rotation of threaded member.
 11. A theft-deterrIng device in accordance with claim 10 in which said threaded hole is disposed nearer one of said side strip elements than the other and said handle element has a length such that it extends from said threaded member a distance corresponding to the distance said threaded hole is from the other of said side strip elements, said handle hole being adjacent the free end of said handle element.
 12. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 10 in which said threaded hole is located centrally in said top strip element and said handle element has a length approximately half the length of said top strip element, said handle hole being disposed adjacent the free end of said handle element.
 13. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a generally rectangular unit including a first pair of parallel elements of a length greater than the width of a pair of skis and a second pair of parallel elements of a length greater than the thickness of said pair of skis, the ends of said second elements connecting with the ends of said first elements to maintain a fixed spacing between said first elements sufficient to permit the insertion of overlapped portions of a pair of skis into the opening formed by said first and second elements, one of said first elements having a threaded hole therein, a threaded stud or bolt engageable in said threaded hole, an elongated handle attached to one end of said threaded stud or bolt and a pressure plate engageable by the other end of said stud or bolt so that it can be forced against one of said skis, said handle having a hole therein spaced from said stud or bolt, whereby when said handle is rotated in one direction said stud or bolt is advanced toward said one ski to force said pressure plate against said one ski and said one ski against the other of said pair of skis to force said other ski against a surface portion of the other of said first elements and whereby the shackle of a padlock can be inserted through said opening formed by said first and second pairs of elements and through said handle hole so that said shackle straddles said one first element to prevent sufficient movement of said handle relative to said unit which would release said skis.
 14. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 including a layer of resilient slip-resistant material on at least one of said surface portions.
 15. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 including a layer of resilient slip-resistant material on each of said surface potions.
 16. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 in which said threaded hole is located nearer one of said second elements than the other and said handle has a length at least equal to the distance from said threaded hole to the other of said second elements and said handle hole is located in said handle at a distance from said stud or bolt equal to approximately the distance between said threaded hole and said other second element.
 17. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 13 in which said threaded hole is located substantially midway between the ends of said first element and said handle having a length at least equal to half of the length of said first element and said handle hole is located in said handle at a distance from said stud or bolt equal to approximately the distance between said threaded hole in either of said second elements.
 18. A theft-deterring device for skis comprising a rectangular metal frame including a first strip having a given length, second and third strips attached to the ends of said first strip having a length less than that of said first strip, a fourth strip having a length corresponding to that of the first strip, said fourth strip having its ends attached to the other ends of said second and third strips and having a threaded hole therein, the device further comprising a threaded stud or bolt engageable in said threaded hole, a fifth strip extending perpendicularly from one end of said stud or bolt for advancing the other end of saiD stud or bolt in the direction of said first strip to clamp said skis between said stud or bolt and first strip, and means enabling said fifth strip to be held relative said fourth strip.
 19. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 18 in which said means includes a U-shaped shackle of a padlock, said fifth strip having a hole therein so that said shackle can be inserted through the hole of said fifth strip in a straddling relation with said fourth strip to prevent reverse rotation of said stud or bolt and unauthorized release of said skis.
 20. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 19 in which said threaded hole is located nearer said second strip.
 21. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 19 in which said hole is located substantially midway between said second and third strips, said frame including a sixth strip secured to said fourth strip for reinforcing said fourth strip, said threaded hole extending through said fourth and sixth strips.
 22. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 19 including a pressure plate having a recess in one side thereof for accommodating said other end of the stud or bolt.
 23. A theft-deterring device in accordance with claim 22 including a layer of resilient material adhered to said first strip and a layer of resilient material adhered to said pressure plate. l
 24. A method of deterring the unauthorized taking of skis comprising the steps of overlapping portions of a pair of skis within a frame having a threaded hole and a threaded member received therein, said member having a handle formed with a hole therein, tightening said member sufficiently to clamp said ski portions within said frame and to orient said handle hole in a slightly offset relation with said frame, and inserting the shackle of a padlock through said frame and handle hole to prevent loosening of said bolt and release of said clamped skis.
 25. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of lacing the strap of at least one ski pole over said handle before inserting said shackle through said frame and handle hole to additionally deter the unauthorized taking of said ski pole.
 26. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of placing a section of the strap of at least one pole between said ski portions before tightening said bolt.
 27. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 including the step of placing a pressure pad between said threaded member and one of said skis before tightening said member.
 28. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 in which said overlapping step includes the placing of the ski heels together to retain said skis in an end-to-end relation.
 29. A method of deterring the taking of skis in accordance with claim 24 in which said overlapping step includes the placing of the ski tips together to retain said skis in a teepee-like relation. 